Italy: Cesac produced 50 thousand tons of potatoes and onions in 2016

With its 50 thousand tons of potatoes and onions, Cesac is one of the leading cooperatives in the sector. Last year, it produced 23,200 tons of potatoes and 26,200 tons of onions. It is a member of Apo Conerpo with 1,403 members, 255 employees and 9 facilities.

Stefano Andraghetti, President of Cesac, presented its balance sheet in Bologna on 14th June 2017. "Potatoes and onions are the leading segment in my coop, followed by cereal and wine. The fresh-cut sector is also growing. The total turnover exceeds €60 million."

The Board of Directors already approved 600 thousand Euros' worth of investments. "We're not applying for Regional Development Plans as applications are far are higher than the funds available. In addition, only two sectors can be chosen."

A moment during the press conference held on 14th June 2017

Potatoes and onions are cultivated on approximately 1200 hectares for a turnover of €23 million in 2016. Onion yields were 58 ton/ha while potato yields were 51 ton/ha.

"Thanks to the weather, the production of both potatoes and onions was abundant. The fresh-cut range did well, especially in the H&R sector, with sales reaching 6,300 tons against the 5,500 of 2015." Potatoes, onions and carrots are pre-washed and cut and sold in 2-5 kg bags.

Stefano Andraghetti, President of Cesac, and Gabriele Chiesa, Director of Apo Conerpo.

Potatoes and onions cover 28% of the turnover, while the fresh-cut sector covers 8%. "The sector is well organised and there is a Potato Exchange with a framework agreement guaranteeing a minimum price for high-quality productions. Prices paid to producers weren't exceptional but they were still very good. Consumers ask for Selenella and Pdo potatoes from Bologna. Prices are currently not so good but they will definitely grow."

Onion harvesting operations (archive photo)

As regards onions, "the abundant production led to a slow market. In 2016, we paid 5-6 eurocents per kg for golden onions and little more for white and red onions. These figures are too low, they are not profitable. The large quantities meant we had to rent storage warehouses and spend more."

Some of the data presented at the press conference.

For 2017, estimates talk about 40 tons/ha for potatoes and 45 ton/ha for onions. "But there might be drops due to the high temperatures."